Ahead of his "Night to Shine" prom night on February 13, former NFL star Tim Tebow spoke about how important it was for him to give back to the special needs community.
The Tim Tebow Foundation organised free 50 proms across the world, complete with a limousine ride, hairstyling, makeup, professional photography, food, and party favours.
"We are trying to make a difference in their lives, and we are trying to make them feel like they are kings and queens, because I know that's how God sees them, and that's how we should see them," he told Fox News on Friday.
Tim Tebow Foundation executive director Erik Dellenback hoped the event would be an unforgettable night for the special guests.
"Everyone should have the opportunity to experience a prom where they feel loved and welcomed and we pray this event will positively impact the lives of thousands of people across the country," he told GreenvilleOnline.
The proms were held in 26 churches across the US, and in Kenya and Uganda, and guest referrals and volunteer opportunities were coordinated through the host church.
"I really believe when you've been blessed with a platform, then you need to make other people feel special," Tebow said.
"For me, what is special, is all the people that have rallied when we started sharing this with our pastor friends... So many people wanted to be a part of this, and that was what was special to me."
Tebow has not played in an NFL regular season game since December 2012, and was hired as a commentator for ESPN's SEC Network at the end of 2013. His ESPN contract allows him to pursue playing opportunities, and the devout Christian is putting his future in the hands of the Lord.
"One of my favorite quotes is: 'I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds my future,'" he told FOX10 last year.
"In that, it gives you peace to just continue to work and go after what your heart desires. And when you do that, you don't have any regrets. And that's the best way to live life."
